Description
A day trip from Marrakech to High Atlas Mountains is a fantastic idea! The Ourika Valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Atlas Mountains, waterfalls, and Berber villages. Here’s a general itinerary for your day trip:
- Departure from Marrakech: Typically, tours start early in the morning to make the most of the day. You’ll depart from Marrakech in a vehicle, either a guided tour or private transport.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside, passing by olive groves, traditional villages, and the beautiful landscapes of the Atlas Mountains.
- Visit to Berber Villages: Along the way, you might have the opportunity to visit some Berber villages. Experience the local culture, interact with residents, and perhaps learn about their traditions and crafts.
- Exploration and Hiking: Depending on your preferences and the tour itinerary, there might be stops for short hikes or walks to viewpoints overlooking the valley or waterfalls. Wear comfortable shoes!
- Waterfalls: The highlight of many trips to the Ourika Valley is a visit to the Setti Fatma waterfalls. You may have the chance to hike to these falls and even swim in the refreshing pools if the weather permits.
- Lunch: Many tours include a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant. Expect to taste some delicious tagines, couscous, and other local specialties.
Return to Marrakech: After exploring the valley and enjoying its beauty in a day trip from Marrakech to High Atlas Mountains, you’ll head back to Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening.
Ourika Valley is a valley in the Moroccan High Atlas along the Ourika River. It is located around 30 km from Marrakech, and is essentially populated by Berber people speaking Tamazight. Despite its proximity to Marrakech, it is still considered a relatively well-preserved valley, by its very nature a and traditional mountain way of life.